When I arrived in Melbourne, I was just happy to be out of quarantine and breathed in freedom. All sights and sounds were new and exciting. First I was excited to explore the building/mall we lived in. The QV building is large with varied businesses so I had to look at everything on offer. Russell Street was our main cross road and I walked up and down enjoying the bustle and people watching.
I learned the tram/train/bus system, how to top up my myki card, and public transportation etiquette. I mostly walked though because I love walking and I needed exercise. I would randomly set out in a direction with a vague end goal location but I allowed myself to get distracted by something that veered me off the path. This allowed me to find fascinating ethnic and business-themed neighborhoods.
Night time
At night, the city lights up, the bars are hopping, and restaurants often have lines snaking along their door entrance.
This is a safe city and I never felt threatened with my solo travels. The city usually smelled good, with RARE whiffs of garbage. This is unlike Los Angeles!!
I’ve written about the city features that stood out to me, the ones that I thought were important or appealed to my interests: food, desserts, street art, public art, public gardens, architecture, and museums. I’ve visited all the museums multiple times and re-visit the big public gardens as often as possible.
We live in three different buildings and in two different apartments in two of the buildings so we lived in 5 spaces in our 4 months here. Each building was in a different neighborhood which encouraged me to explore in new directions.
Thirty years ago when I visited Australia, I spent most of the time in the outback or in the country and saw more wildlife and foliage than I saw on this trip. We did a few country trips but were thwarted to travel beyond the region due to covid. Stupid virus.
I gained at least 8lbs due to the amazing food and cocktails here. This was despite swimming, going to the gym (when not on lockdown), and pole dance lessons.
We will return next year when there is not a mandated quarantine upon arrival to the country. The Western Australia trip needs resolution. I want to go visit the Sky View when I return. I plan to bring/send multiple boots, sweaters, and warm clothes next time. This has been a good life experience.
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